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Douglas Gildroy Obituary
DOUGLAS LEE GILDROY
June 4, 1952 ˜ June 26, 2023
Doug was a quiet man, but could be counted on to come up with an appropriate one-liner that would elicit laughter from all of us.
Born on June 4, 1952, Doug spent his first 10 years in Tacoma, then grew up in Vancouver and graduated from Hudson Bay High School.
In February 1971, Doug enlisted in the United States Air Force. His overseas duty was in Japan and his final assignment was Altus AFB in Altus, OK.
Upon his return to Vancouver, Doug joined the Air National Guard at Portland International Airport, and then the Air Force Reserve, retiring as chief master sergeant.
In retirement, Doug was able to enjoy his hobbies: cooking for himself and others; gardening and creating a variety of useful artifacts.
Survivors include his daughter, Hollie; his grandchildren, Rachel, Brayden and Cody (all in Oklahoma); his parents, Vernon and Bernice Gildroy in Lacey, WA; brother, Rick Gildroy in Milwaukie; sister, Audrey Reasy; and nephew, David Dahl, both in Seattle.
Military inurnment ceremony will be at Vancouver Barracks National Cemetery at 11 a.m., Friday, Aug. 4.
Celebration of life will begin at 1 p.m. at Doug’s home: 3631 151st Avenue in Vancouver.
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Memories and Condolences
for Douglas Gildroy
Sam
December 18, 2024
We had a lot of fun together.
Sandy Garl Brown
August 4, 2023
Doug was a childhood friend when living in Tacoma. I can remember many days playing outdoors, riding our bikes and collecting hundreds of chestnuts. He tried to teach me how to catch a baseball but it hit me in the mouth to knock out my front tooth. After going our own ways it was nice to connect with him as an adult. He will be missed, but I will hold the childhood memories.
Michael Rak, 939MOF
July 31, 2023
Great memories of Doug and Loren outside the Bldg smoking. Always had a joke, lively conversation or a humors remark. Will miss his humor, and personality. Still have a bottle of home brewed wine he presented upon my unit departure. RIP Chief, Godspeed!!
Major W. Harris, Jr.
July 31, 2023
I am Sad for your loss and offer my condolences. Doug was a Good person, Man and Friend.
Robert Boardman
July 31, 2023
Doug was my Supervisor at PANG, great Boss, and Great Guy, he always showed his appreciation, in my successful efforts at securing critical parts for our Aircraft , he will be missed, Bob Boardman MSGT/ GS-9, RET USAFR
Shannon pierce
July 30, 2023
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
SAM LYNN
July 29, 2023
Doug was a great friend and mentor. He taught me how to play guitar and him and me had a lot of fun with it. He was my friend for over 30 years and he is terribly missed. God Bless him and his family. I pray God gives the family and friends the strength they need at this sorrowful sad time.
Katie Heinzman
July 27, 2023
We were next door neighbors with Doug for 22 yrs. He was the greatest neighbor you could ask for. As we in the culdesac were out working in the yard he would bring us a nummy drink he concocted with a side of cookies! Halloween he would dress up and come knocking. He was hilarious. After we moved to our retirement home my husband passed away. I was able to stay in touch with Dougie. Will miss the "band" when we had a function. Christmas time and the breads and goodies I will never forget. Who do you know buys doggy treats for the little chihuahua next door?! We were blessed the
day he bought his home next door. I will miss him and his personality. Very special guy!
Sending love to family,
Katie and Butch Heinzman
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